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3 Medical Device Assembly Trends in 2019

Dec, 18 2018 Posted in Industry News, Sonic News

Do you ever feel like technology is evolving at an ever-faster rate? That’s because it is. Whether it’s computers, cars, or smart homes, each technological advancement incorporates and builds upon what came before it and increases the pace of subsequent innovation.

This is equally true for medical device assembly. Whether you’re talking about smart-infusion systems or the Pinnacle TPN Management System, every new device requires corresponding advancements in design, prototyping, and manufacturing.

So, what’s on the horizon for 2019? What medical industry innovations will also be driving changes in assembly? We’ll go over the emerging trends below you need to know.

Medical Device Assembly Trends in 2019

Connectivity is the common factor across all these medical device assembly trends in 2019. This is the Medical Internet of Things (MIoT): the increasingly complex digital network connecting devices and sharing information throughout the healthcare industry.

The MIoT market – $41.22 billion in 2017 – is projected to grow to $158 billion by 2022. This includes evolving roles for 3D printing and prototyping, wearables, and cybersecurity.

1. 3D Prototyping

There are significant benefits from 3D prototyping for medical devices including saving time and money by making changes as required without additional equipment setup. Plus, there’s the capability for customization based on patient anatomy.

At the same time, all these activities – including CNC machining, laser sintering (SLS), and stereolithography (SLA) ­– must conform to FDA guidelines. Once these concerns have been addressed, however, the use of robotics will streamline production processes even further.

2. Wearables

Medical-related wearables are moving far beyond activity trackers like Fitbit. These include inhalers that also monitor air quality as well as sensors worn on fingernails to track UV exposure.

These new devices must be safe and durable for out-patient settings. This means meeting FDA-standards, for example, regarding injection-molded plastic for electronic components and housing.

Turning Ideas into Action

When implementing the medical device assembly trends in 2019, you may want to redesign and improve an existing product. Or perhaps you have an idea for a completely new piece of equipment. Either way, you must utilize the best provider for printed circuit board assembly (PCBA).

At Sonic Manufacturing, we have the equipment and knowledge to successfully realize your concepts. Whether you need double- or single-sided reflow processing or leaded and lead-free assembly, our experience combined with our modern, state-of-the-art 85K square-foot facility can produce what you need.

Sonic Manufacturing Technologies serves areas throughout California including Fremont, San Jose, and Silicon Valley. Contact us today to request a quote for your next project.